Musical Wasboard Playing

Watching, and of course playing with, other washboard players is really one of the better ways to learn how to play this fine instrument.

When I started playing I didn't have a clue and unfortunately, didn't think of searching the web right away. And even when I did, I didn't think of searching for videos so I didn't find much information on how to play one.

So when I did, I made a website to list the different washboard websites I had found and share ideas as to how to put stuff on my washboard: Jazz Up Your Washboard.

However, many people visiting that site are searching for advice on how to play a washboard, a question that not easily answered although the answer is easy: you tap and scratch!

Yet at first your tapping and scratching doesn't sound like the pros. What are you doing wrong? There must be some secret thing that you still need to find out, right? Sorry, no secret. Washboard playing is all about tapping and scratching, the problem is that it seems really easy and it's actually kind of hard.

But not that hard, with time and lots of practice you too will thrill a crowd with your rhythmic skills! But I can't help more than that. There are many different washboard playing styles and what is good for me, may not be good for you.

Below are a few rubboard playing lessons and and a couple of other links. I've also posted a whole bunch of washboard player videos on my musical washboard videos page. I am still learning a lot by playing with my favorite ones, watching what these great musicians are doing and practicing the patterns I figure out - often with a metronome - on a daily basis. If you do this, little by little your sound is going to change and improve, and it's a great feeling.

And don't be shy, find other musician to play with!